At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to operate and monitor power generation equipment in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading energy operator in Northern Ireland's power generation sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, shift allowance, structured training, and career progression.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on experience and long-term job security.
- Qualifications: Engineering apprenticeship or A-Levels with a passion for technical environments.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
A Trainee Operations Technician position has arisen for a major power generation business operating across Kilroot and Ballylumford power stations. This role offers a structured training pathway, exposure to large-scale power generation equipment, and the opportunity to develop into a highly skilled Operations Technician within a modern energy environment.
Initially, the role will operate on a Monday‑Friday working pattern during the training period. As your competency develops, the position will transition into a shift‑based role involving a combination of 12‑hour day and night shifts, attracting an additional shift allowance.
The Opportunity
Working as part of the Operations Team, you will learn how to safely operate, monitor and control power generation equipment responsible for supplying electricity across Northern Ireland. You'll gain hands‑on experience with gas turbines, steam turbines, generators, heat recovery systems and a wide range of supporting plant and infrastructure, while receiving ongoing training and support from experienced engineers and operators.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with an engineering background who wants to move into a specialist operations role offering long‑term career progression and strong earning potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the safe and efficient operation of power generation units and associated plant
- Monitor plant performance and respond to operational changes
- Carry out routine plant inspections and report defects
- Assist with start‑up, shutdown and load control activities
- Record operational data and maintain accurate station logs
- Work closely with maintenance and engineering teams to resolve operational issues
- Support environmental, safety and compliance objectives
- Learn plant isolation procedures and safe systems of work
- Assist with fault finding and performance improvement initiatives
- Participate in ongoing training and development programmes
- Contribute to operational projects and continuous improvement activities
What We're Looking For
Essential
- Completed recognised engineering apprenticeship or equivalent training in a relevant discipline OR A‑Level qualifications and a strong interest in engineering, operations or technical environments
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
- Excellent problem‑solving ability
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- A proactive approach to learning and personal development
- Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and quality
- Previous experience in industrial plant operations or maintenance
- Knowledge of power generation, process, manufacturing or heavy industrial environments
- Understanding of engineering systems and equipment
- Awareness of health, safety and environmental procedures
What's On Offer?
- Starting salary of £33,674
- Additional shift allowance of £8,868 upon transition to shift pattern
- Structured training and development programme
- Opportunity to work within a highly specialised power generation environment
- Clear career progression opportunities
- Exposure to large-scale industrial equipment and technologies
- Long‑term job security within a critical infrastructure sector
- Supportive team environment and ongoing professional development
This is a rare opportunity to join a leading energy operator and develop a rewarding career within the power generation industry. Applications are welcomed from candidates with engineering, manufacturing, maintenance, process, utilities, power, production or industrial backgrounds who are eager to learn and progress.
If you are interested in the role click apply or reach out to karl.yellop@vanrath.com for a confidential discussion.
Trainee Operations Technician in Larne employer: VanRath Search & Selection
Join a leading power generation business in Northern Ireland, where you will receive full training and career development as a Trainee Operations Technician. With a structured pathway to becoming a highly skilled technician, you'll enjoy a supportive team environment, exposure to advanced industrial equipment, and clear opportunities for long-term career progression in a critical infrastructure sector. The company prioritises employee growth and offers competitive salaries along with excellent benefits, making it an outstanding employer for those looking to build a meaningful career.
Contact Details:
VanRath Search & Selection Recruitment Team
